Brisbane Tournament Director reflects on Rafael Nadal withdrawal
Brisbane International Tournament Director Cam Pearson fully understands Rafael Nadal's decision to withdraw from Brisbane as the tournament wishes the Spaniard nothing but the best going forward.
The Spaniard, who was seeded at No. 1 in the Brisbane main draw, announced his withdrawal on Wednesday.
The 32-year-old is dealing with a small staring on his left thigh.
Nadal said he "wanted to play" but the doctors recommended to skip Brisbane.
The 17-time Grand Slam champion also said he doesn't want to risk to further his injury as the Australian Open starts in less than two weeks.
Nadal was due to open his Brisbane campaign from the round-of-16 against Jo Wilfried Tsonga.
Instead, the Frenchman will be taking on lucky loser Taro Daniel.
"We know how disappointed Rafa is that he had to withdraw and is unable to play in front of the Brisbane fans. Rafa gave himself every opportunity to play and we respect how hard he tried to take the court. Wishing him well for the remainder of the Aussie summer," Brisbane International Tournament Director Pearson said of the Nadal withdrawal, per the Brisbane International Twitter account.
Nadal debuted at the Brisbane event in 2017 when he reached the quarter-final.
The former world No. 1 also withdrew from Brisbane a year ago.
It remains to be seen will Nadal be fully ready for the upcoming Australian Open.
Also read: Injury forces Rafael Nadal to withdraw from Brisbane International
from Tennis World USA http://bit.ly/2BV2SHC
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